01
Best overall pick
Buttermilk Bend Trail, South Yuba River State Park
South Yuba River Canyon Near Bridgeport • Wildflower-Lined Riverside Path • Scenic Crowd-Pleaser
A gently rolling river trail with big canyon views and standout spring wildflowers.
Starting near the historic Bridgeport covered bridge, Buttermilk Bend follows the South Yuba along open, sun-washed slopes with constant water views. In spring the hillsides explode with poppies and lupine, but even in summer it’s a relaxed out-and-back with easy footing and plenty of photo stops. Go early on weekends for easier parking and cooler temperatures.
02
Best history hike
Rim and Diggins Loop, Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park
North Bloomfield / Malakoff Diggins • Historic Mining-Era Forest Loop • History-Meets-Hiking Pick
A loop that circles towering mining scars, quiet forest, and a preserved Gold Rush town.
This loop threads together shady singletrack, viewpoints over the otherworldly Malakoff Diggins pits, and side trips through the old North Bloomfield town site. The contrast between peaceful conifer forest and the massive hydraulic mining cuts makes the scenery feel unlike anywhere else in the Sierra foothills. Bring water, a map, and time to poke around the historic buildings after your hike.
03
Best close-to-town loop
Nisenan Loop – Deer Creek Environs Trail
Foothills Just Outside Nevada City • Creekside Mixed-Forest Loop • After-Work Or Half-Day Outing
A mellow loop that dips in and out of Deer Creek’s forested canyon with varied terrain and easy access.
The Nisenan Loop links segments of the Deer Creek Environs Trail into a satisfying circuit of mixed oak and pine forest, short creek views, and occasional rocky outcrops. It feels surprisingly tucked away given how close it is to town, making it a good choice when you want real trail time without a long drive. Expect moderate ups and downs, with enough variety to stay interesting but not exhausting.
04
Best easy walk
Orene Weatherall Trail via Cascade Canal
Cascade Shores And Nevada City Foothills • Shaded Canal-Side Path • Relaxed Family-Friendly Option
A nearly level walk along an old canal with steady shade, glimpses of the forested hills, and a quiet, local feel.
Following the Cascade Canal, this route serves up easy walking on a smooth bench cut into the hillside, with just enough views through the trees to remind you you’re high above the ravines. It’s a favorite for locals looking to stretch their legs, bring the dog, or introduce kids to hiking without worrying about steep drop-offs. Start from one of the signed access points and turn around whenever you’re ready—there’s no need to commit to a big mileage day.
05
Best for solitude
Illinois Crossing Trail and Primitive Camp
Backroads Near Pike In Tahoe National Forest • Remote Forest And River Access Trail • Quiet Adventure Pick
A rougher, less-traveled trail that drops toward the Yuba country for those who like their hikes quiet and a little wild.
Reaching the Illinois Crossing area involves narrow forest roads, but the payoff is a stretch of country that feels far from the usual crowds. The trail works its way through dense timber and brushy clearings toward the river corridor, with a primitive camp area that makes a natural turnaround point for day hikers. It’s best suited to confident navigators who don’t mind a bit of route-finding and rustic conditions in exchange for real backwoods atmosphere.